Briefs

New York Times, By ALEX BERENSON, May 31, 2006

In an admission that could undermine one of its core defenses in Vioxx-related lawsuits, Merck said yesterday that it had erred when it reported in early 2005 that a crucial statistical test showed that Vioxx caused heart problems only after 18 months of continuous use.

That statistical analysis test does not support Merck's 18-month theory about Vioxx, the company acknowledged yesterday.

But Dr. Peter S. Kim, Merck's chief scientist, said the company stood by the overall findings it reported in 2005 � including the conclusion that the drug's heart risks were not apparent if patients took it less than 18 months.

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